Is there an app for that? Mobile phones and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Neubeck, Lis; Cartledge, Susie; Dawkes, Susan; Gallagher, Robyn

Abstract

Purpose of review: Advances in technology coupled with increased penetration of mobile phones and smart devices are rapidly changing healthcare delivery. Mobile phone applications (‘apps’), text messages, and Internet platforms used alone or in combination are now providing interventions targeting people with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The present article will review the emerging evidence regarding apps and discuss their potential role in providing secondary prevention interventions via mobile phones. Recent findings: Seven recent randomized controlled trials used text messages or apps for six to 12 months, with or without differing combinations of other technology platforms. All studies, involved cardiac and diabetes populations, and demonstrated at least one positive improvement to cardiovascular risk factor profiles. When measured, acceptability of the intervention was high. Summary: Mobile apps and technology can deliver positive outcomes in the management of cardiovascular risk factors. However, because of the complexity of combination interventions, it is difficult to determine the ‘active’ ingredient. A future challenge for researchers and clinicians will be to respond quickly to these rapidly evolving interventions in order to ensure the delivery of effective, evidence-based outcomes.

Citation

NEUBECK, L., CARTLEDGE, S., DAWKES, S. and GALLAGHER, R. 2017. Is there an app for that? Mobile phones and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Current opinion in cardiology [online], 32(5), pages 567-571. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1097/HCO.0000000000000428

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 13, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Jun 13, 2016
• Publication Date: Sep 30, 2017
• Deposit Date: Sep 7, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 7, 2021
• Journal: Current Opinion in Cardiology
• Print ISSN: 0268-4705
• Electronic ISSN: 1531-7080
• Publisher: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 32
• Issue: 5
• Pages: 567-571
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/HCO.0000000000000428
• Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Mobile applications; Secondary prevention; Telehealth; Text messaging
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/1255305